An Open Letter to Our Patients and the Communities We Serve

An open letter to our patients, community members, staff and elected officials,

Recently, our country has faced challenges that seem contradictory to the principles on which our nation was founded. Access to health care for millions of Americans hangs in the balance, and countless others’ hopes of continuing or pursuing a life in the U.S. are in uncertainty due to changes in immigration policies.

Every day, I hear stories from our staff about patients’ fears of being stripped of medical coverage and the heightened concern many have of being unable to receive necessary care at a time when their immigration status is on tenuous footing.

I want to share one message with the people of Cook County. We care for you.

For 180 years, Cook County has provided health care to all in our community and that mission continues to this day.

Regardless of your immigration status, we care for you. Whether you have insurance or not, we care for you. No matter your ability to pay, we care for you. Whatever your religious beliefs, we care for you.

Here at the Cook County Health & Hospitals System, we do not require proof of insurance or documentation papers as a prerequisite of receiving care.

We believe health care is a human right. Here in the United States, a nation of immigrants, all should have the opportunity to life, liberty and pursuit of happiness in health. That tenet is what makes America truly great.

For more than 180 years, our health system has always found a way to serve our patients. Despite any changes to the ACA, we are committed to doing everything we can to help the residents of Cook County stay healthy and well so that you may pursue your individual dreams and contribute to our society.